FAQ

What types of camera(s) do you use?

I use a disposable camera. Just kidding. Kodak would be so proud. My primary camera is a Canon 6D. She’s my other half of a half. I love it for it’s wide angle and image stabilization.

iPhone. I am not sure what I would do without this phone. Not only is great for taking sneaky pictures like inside a restaurant or church, but it’s super lightweight. And the best part, I can edit and share my photos quickly.

What type of lenses do you use?

Have you ever taken any photography classes?

Sadly, no! I would eventually like to, but time and money always seem to be an excuse. I spend a large majority of my time Googling photography definitions, functions, and tips/tricks from other professional photographers. To tell you the truth, if you want to take better pictures – learn how to shoot in manual mode and practice, practice, practice!

Who is Mr. B?

Mr. B is my husband. He’s is the glue that keeps Climbing Grier Mountain together. Not only is he a wonderful hand model, cold food (learned) enthusiast, better photographer than yours truly, he is my biggest supporter. So if you see him around on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or Snapchat with a crazy beard and wild hair, send him some love because I promise he doesn’t bite.

Are you a full-time blogger?

I have been blessed with the ability to handle two jobs! Or, I at least I think I am handling it? Do I get an ‘F’ if I answer this wrong? Okay, by 9 to 5 day, I am a Senior Associate at a Private Investment Firm. By night and all of other nano seconds of the day, I am a Food and Lifestyle Blogger. That deserves a C+, yes?

When did you learn how to cook?

When I first moved to Denver I was a newly wed and unemployed. To keep myself occupied while I looked for a job, I started watching the Food Network. I can still remember asking myself, what’s an aioli? I would watch Giada, Tyler Florence, and Bobby Flay cook and basically try to mimic their recipes.

There were a ton of burnt and disgraceful dishes, but with any new endeavor you have to keep practicing. I am still not a very good cook, but I try to keep challenging myself everyday to go outside my comfort zone. How else are you going to learn?

Do you have a favorite kitchen tool?

Um, yes. You might not believe me, but I could not survive without with my onion goggles! Mr.B actually received them as a gag gift in his Christmas stocking a few years ago. Well, when I was cutting my fourth onion for a recipe and tears were rolling down my face, I put those suckers on and never looked back.

Have you ever thought about going to culinary school?

Yes. I almost enrolled in Cook Street here in Denver, but it wasn’t the right time. I may go back and get my Private Chef certification some day!

How do you come up with your recipe creations?

If I told you, I would have to eat you like Hansel and Gretel style. JUST Kidding. Maybe. I think the secret to creating recipes, 1) being extremely hungry and 2) liking the shit out of food.

I made a recipe of yours and want you to see it. How should I share it?

This makes me so happy! The best way to share is via Instragam, Twitter, Facebook or Snapchat. I am always available. Just make sure to tag the photo #cgmrecipes so I can find you faster!

What is your obsession with tater tots?

Good question. I feel they are the perfect medium between salty french fries and crispy onion rings.Plus, tater tots can make any dish 11/10 situation. #tots4life

What is giggle juice?

I need to thank my mother-in-law for this one. It refers to any alcoholic beverage of any kind.

Tell me more about your restaurants.

We own and operate two restaurants in Manhattan, KS. Harry’s is an elegant restaurant tucked inside the historic Wareham Hotel. Harry’s serves inventive American cuisine and has an extensive wine list provided by our sommeliers. Bourbon and Baker is a causal, tapas style restaurant with Midwestern and Southern influences. Serving up fried chicken, fluffy biscuits, and eclectic libations. You can check out more information about the restaurants on this page.

I’m digging your photos. Can I share them on my website?

Yes, but please credit me (Climbing Grier Mountain) when using the photo. Also, please never share a full recipe without my permission. K. Thanks!

What do you do with all the food you make? Does Mr. B get to eat any?

Hmmm…this depends on what I am making. Since I always shoot a week ahead, typically we have leftovers through the weekend. So I guess to the answer the question, we do use up all the food! And yes, Mr. B gets to eat! He’s my taste tester after all!

How did you learn how to snow ski?

I didn’t grow up snow skiing. My family always went to the lake for vacations so I learned how to water-ski instead. When we first moved out to Colorado Mr. B told me that I had to take ski lessons. I am so glad I listened because we almost ended our relationship once on top of a mountain because I said I could ski and really couldn’t. Ooops!

The first year and half, I was horrible. All I could do was pie wedge down the mountain. But I stayed with it and eventually everything clicked. Now, I am comfortable with blues and getting better at blacks.

I am planning a trip to Colorado. Do you have any tips on where I should go and do?

Yes! I have a full travel page that is dedicated to exploring Colorado. Whether you are looking for hotel or restaurant recommendations or things to do like ski or hike, I’ve got you covered! You can check out stuff to do on my Denver or High Country pages.

Who designed your website?

Lindsay Landis of Purr Design. She is awesome and can’t recommend her enough!

About Lauren

Hi, and welcome to CGM! My name is Lauren and I'm a self-proclaimed foodie, recipe developer, action-adventure seeker, photography lover, and world traveler.

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